How to Enable Nested Virtualization on ESXi
If you’re a VMware ESXi user, you may be interested in enabling nested virtualization on your virtual machines. Nested virtualization allows you to run a virtual machine inside another virtual machine, making it a great tool for testing new software, running multiple operating systems, or experimenting with different configurations.
Enabling nested virtualization on ESXi is not as straightforward as on other virtualization platforms, but with a few tweaks, you can easily get it up and running. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process step by step.
Step 1: Check Hardware Compatibility
Before enabling nested virtualization on your ESXi host, it’s important to check if your hardware supports this feature. Nested virtualization requires certain CPU features, such as Intel VT-x or AMD-V, to be enabled in the BIOS. Check your hardware documentation or consult with your hardware vendor to ensure compatibility.
Step 2: Enable Virtualization Extensions in the BIOS
Once you’ve confirmed that your hardware supports nested virtualization, you’ll need to enable the virtualization extensions in the BIOS. This process varies depending on your computer’s manufacturer and model, but typically involves accessing the BIOS settings by pressing a specific key during startup (e.g., F2, F10, Del).
Inside the BIOS settings, look for options related to virtualization and enable any features labeled Intel VT-x or AMD-V. Save your changes and exit the BIOS to restart your computer.
Step 3: Enable Nested Virtualization in ESXi
After ensuring that your hardware and BIOS settings are compatible with nested virtualization, you can now enable this feature in ESXi. To do this, follow these steps:
- Connect to your ESXi host using SSH or the ESXi Shell.
- Navigate to the directory where your ESXi configuration files are stored (usually /etc/vmware).
- Edit the VM configuration file (vmx) of the virtual machine where you want to enable nested virtualization.
- Add the following line to the VM configuration file: vhv.enable = “TRUE”.
- Save the changes to the VM configuration file and restart the virtual machine.
Once you’ve completed these steps, nested virtualization should be enabled on the specified virtual machine. You can now run virtual machines within this virtual machine, expanding your testing and experimentation capabilities.
Conclusion
Enabling nested virtualization on ESXi can be a valuable tool for virtualization enthusiasts and IT professionals looking to maximize their virtualization environment. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can easily enable nested virtualization on your ESXi host and begin exploring new possibilities for your virtual machines.